Heavy Snow and Shoveling the Roof

Only the most inland-lying areas will have to deal with “heavy snow.” This is the concept of so much snow falling that your roof is in danger of collapsing – so you must get on the roof to shovel it off. However, this is the source of a lot of accidents as people do not secure themselves properly and fall off the roof. If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, consult with your neighbors about the best way of shoveling it off safely.

Safety Tips

・Roofs get slippery when the snow starts to melt. Shoveling the roof is best in the morning right after the snow fall, while the snow is still compact and hard.

・Always attach a safety rope （命網、meimo） and safety harness（安全帯、anzentai）. If you don’t have a special hook on the roof or other place to attach the rope, attach it to a sturdy tree or pillar on the other side of the house.

・Make sure your ladder is sturdy and steady.

・Use shovels that are light and easy-to-use.

・Never work alone. Always shovel with two or more people.

・Roof shoveling is back-breaking work. Do not attempt if you don’t think you can do it. Always take breaks and drink plenty of work.

・Always be aware of your footing. Leave the snow at the edge of the roof until the very end.

・If your roof faces the street, make sure you’re not dumping snow on to a passerby!